Men & Women's Ski Boot Reviews 2012

A good or bad ski boot can easily make or break your day on the slopes. While your friends are cruising through fresh powder or ripping through the latest mogul run, the last thing you want to do is have to go into the lodge because your feet hurt or are too cold. Gone are the days of the stiff rear-entry boot. For 2012, we are seeing new technology, plush lining and a plethora of add-ons that make the ski boot more comfortable than ever. Before you buy or rent a boot, it is incredibly important that you try them on and make sure that they fit your foot properly. If boots are too lose or too small, it not only negatively impacts your skiing, but can also increase your risk of injury. A few things to remember when trying on and buying boots:

Try boots on with your ski socks

To determine if the shell of the boot is the correct size, remove the inner lining and place your foot into the shell and slide your foot forward until your big toe is touching the end of shell. You should be able to place 1-2 fingers between the back of your heel and the lining.

Make sure the boots are comfortable once all buckles are closed (at least on the second buckle) and power strap is fastened

A good or bad ski boot can easily make or break your day on the slopes.While your friends are cruising through fresh powder or ripping through the latest mogul run, the last thing you want to do is have to go into the lodge because your feet hurt or are too cold.Gone are the days of the stiff rear-entry boot.For 2011, we are seeing new technology, plush lining and a plethora of add-ons that make the ski boot more comfortable than ever. Before you buy or rent a boot, it is incredibly important that you try them on and make sure that they fit your foot properly.If boots are too lose or too small, it not only negatively impacts your skiing, but can also increase your risk of injury.A few things to remember when trying on and buying boots:

·Try boots on with your ski socks

·To determine if the shell of the boot is the correct size, remove the inner lining and place your foot into the shell and slide your foot forward until your big toe is touching the end of shell.You should be able to place 1-2 fingers between the back of your heel and the lining.

·Make sure the boots are comfortable once all buckles are closed (at least on the second buckle) and power strap is fastened

The Synergy Sensor 100 is designed for the advanced to expert skier seeking an all-mountain high performance neutral stance boot. The boothas an asymmetrical toe box and is made with a 102mm fit, which is wider and more comfortable than many other models. Its Pro Fit Liner fits perfectly within the shell and it’s one-piece toe box and tongue help generate and maintain heat in the toe region. Best of all, the Rossignol Synergy Sensor has a bi-injected cuff, which helps with ease of entry and exit. It is important to note that this boot is fairly stiff, however its responsive sensorshelp maintain control in all types of terrain.

The Technica Pheonix 100 Air Shell is one of the most innovative ski boots on the market today. Mostly designed for the guy with a wider foot, the boot is equipped with an Air Shell system control panel on the calf that allows you to inflate and deflate your heel and midfoot to forefoot zones to achieve a perfect fit. Another cool feature is the Delta Force System, which utilizes a lever just above the heel to switch your boot from a stiff mode to a soft mode and visa versa. Both of these technologies were designed to use with your gloves on, which is super convenient in cold or windy weather. The Thermo-moldable HiPerFit fur liner features a removable and adjustable rear spoiler, which retains heat and keeps your feet toasty throughout the day. Overall, these boats are very comfortable and absorb shock and vibration very well.

Salomon has brought their revolutionary two-buckle shell technology to the Salomon Shogun. The Shogun features a relatively soft flex for easier movement and maximum flexibility. The World Cup Advanced Shell technology positions your legs to improve performance and response, while providing optimum support for your back and legs. The liner is heat moldable for precise foot to shell connections, which drastically improves the comfort and fit for your toes, ankle and achilles. The shock-absorbing footboard makes it the perfect boot for the lighter or intermediate male skier. Although you still have to shell out a significant amount of money, the Shogun isdefinitely the best bang for your buck this season.

Below you will find our top picks for Women’s ski boots equipped with the latest and greatest technology for the 2012 season. Our favorite brands include Technica, Nordica and Head.

Tecnica Women’s Viva D90

The Viva D90 is designed for the intermediate to advanced-intermediate skier who is looking for a performance boot with a streamlined fit and feel. Designed specifically with the female shape in mind, the Viva has a narrower heel pocket, a wider forefoot and a 3D Flared Design with an adjustable spoiler that allows for pressure regulation around the calf. Far and away, the best feature of this boot is its comfort and warmth. The combination of the Primaloft footbed insulation, the wicking technical material found in the footbed and toe box, and the plush Viva Velvet Fur Lining, this boot will keep your feet warm, dry and comfortable from your first run until your last.

If you are looking for an all-around great value, no fuss boot, look no further than the Nordica Olympia SM (Speed Machine) 10. Designed for the advanced skier who wants a slightly softer and more comfortable boot or an intermediate skier looking to improve, the Olympia SM-10 is durable, reliable and fits well. Nordica has engineered a boot liner that is designed to fit a variety of feet and is super comfortable before you even have a chance to break it in. The three layers of lining material provide exceptional thermal warmth, while the padded tongue provides an additional layer of comfort. The Olympia SM 10 boot is designed with the female anatomy in mind, equipped with an adjustable cuff thateasily can be adjusted to fit a larger calf. This boot works well if you have flat feet and is extremely easy to get on and off thanks to the HP Slide.

Designed with the aggressive female skier in mind, the Head Dream 12.5 One is an advanced boot with a stiffer/softer flex adjuster with maximum control and sensitivity. The Dream 12.5 One has a double-cinch power strap that locks you into a forward-leaning, athletic stance allowing you to comfortably rip down the slopes all day long. The boot is roomy and especially great for women with wide feet or bad circulation. The innovative two-tongue concept with a lowered women's double adjustable profile eliminates pressure points on the calf proving a perfect fit. Features like the Thermaluxe fleece and faux-fur lining, the HEAD SoftWalk heel, the Double Power buckles, and the ultralight shell provide maximum comfort and warmth. Best of all, the easy-entry hinged ratchet makes stepping in and out of your boot easier than ever. Although the Dream 12.5 One comes with a lofty price tag, it has every feature that the advanced woman skier could want.

Moosejaw offers mid to high-end mountain apparel and outdoor equipment. They are one of the fastest growing outdoor retailers in the country and have a large selection of ski boots from our favorite ski brands including Tecnica, Head and Solomon.

Backcountry.com is one of the top stores for camping, hiking, and skiing gear. They have tons of ski boots available from our picks, Technica, Solomon, Head, Rossignol & Nordica, as well as boots by Black Diamond, Scarpa, Dynafit & more.